CWD Test Results from Georgia

In 2002 DNR began a five-year CWD targeted surveillance testing program for our wild deer herd. Collections came from hunter-harvested deer from six target areas in Dawson, Harris, Marion, Oconee, Peach and Toombs counties (see map).

A total of 336 samples were collected under this program during 2002. Since 2002, more than 2600 additional samples have been taken stateiwde. All samples have been tested. The results from these samples are all non-detection of CWD. This is certainly good news.

Additionally, necropsy animals are also being continously submitted to determine unexplained mortalities. Animals that were showing clinical signs similar to those reported for CWD (excessive salivation or urination, head tremors or emaciation) were also tested for CWD. To date, all of these animals' test results were also non-detect. Again, these findings are good news and we will continue testing suspect animals in future years.